Masonry lintel for long spans

ABSTRACT

A lintel system for supporting masonry blocks above an opening in a structure includes a lintel configured to span a width of the opening. The lintel includes a plurality of elongate splice plates each having opposite longitudinal ends. The splice plates are attached together end to end such that a longitudinal end of each splice plate is attached to a longitudinal end of at least one other splice plate.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a lintel for use in building construction, and more specifically, to a masonry lintel useful to span wide openings.

BACKGROUND

Relatively large openings such as walkways and archways provide an aesthetically pleasing feature of construction in buildings and other structures. Moreover such architectural features permit passage of large objects through a structure. Generally, lintels span the distance between two spaced supports. It can be challenging to construct a lintel over an opening when the construction is masonry. It is necessary to support the masonry as it is being built over the opening. This can be done by providing support underneath, but this does not provide a clean look in the finished structure because they are exposed. Concealed lintel support systems are known for use in constructing masonry lintels, but have limitations as the span of the opening in the structure increases.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, a lintel system for supporting masonry blocks above an opening in a structure generally comprises a lintel having a length configured to span a width of the opening. Support plates each have an opening within a perimeter of the support plate and a slot therein for receiving the lintel therein for mounting the support plate on the lintel. A support rod is receivable through the opening in the support plate and configured to be received through the masonry blocks for connecting the masonry blocks to the lintel. The lintel comprises a plurality of separately formed, elongate plate members each having opposite longitudinal ends. The plate members are attached together end to end along the length of the lintel such that a longitudinal end of each plate member is attached to a longitudinal end of at least one other plate member.

In another aspect, a lintel system for supporting masonry blocks above an opening in a structure generally comprises a lintel configured to span a width of the opening. Support plates each have an opening within a perimeter of the support plate and a slot therein for receiving the lintel therein for mounting the support plate on the lintel. A support rod is receivable through the opening in the support plate and configured to be received through the masonry blocks for connecting the masonry blocks to the lintel. The lintel comprises a plurality of plate members attached to each other. Each plate member includes one of a projection and a recess. A projection on a first plate member is configured to be received in a recess of a second plate member adjacent the first plate member for interlocking the first and second plate members together.

Other objects and features will be in part apparent and in part pointed out hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a masonry archway with portions removed to show a lintel system of the present invention;

FIG. 1A is a perspective of a lintel of the lintel system;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged fragmentary view of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2A is a front elevation of a first splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2B is a front elevation of a second splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2C is a front elevation of a third splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 3 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged fragmentary view of FIG. 4;

FIG. 5A is a front elevation of a first splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 4;

FIG. 5B is a front elevation of a second splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 4;

FIG. 5C is a front elevation of a third splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged fragmentary view of FIG. 7;

FIG. 8A is a front elevation of a first splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 7;

FIG. 8B is a front elevation of a second splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 7;

FIG. 8C is a front elevation of a third splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 11 is an enlarged fragmentary view of FIG. 10;

FIG. 11A is a front elevation of a first splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 10;

FIG. 11B is a front elevation of a second splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 10;

FIG. 11C is a front elevation of a third splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged fragmentary view of FIG. 13;

FIG. 14A is a front elevation of a first splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 13;

FIG. 14B is a front elevation of a second splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 13;

FIG. 14C is a front elevation of a third splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 16 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 17 is an enlarged fragmentary view of FIG. 16;

FIG. 17A is a front elevation of a first splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 16;

FIG. 17B is a front elevation of a second splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 16;

FIG. 17C is a front elevation of a third splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 19 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 20 is an enlarged fragmentary view of FIG. 19;

FIG. 20A is a front elevation of a first splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 19;

FIG. 20B is a front elevation of a second splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 19;

FIG. 20C is a front elevation of a third splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 22 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 23 is an enlarged fragmentary view of FIG. 22;

FIG. 23A is a front elevation of a first splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 22;

FIG. 23B is a front elevation of a second splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 22;

FIG. 23C is a front elevation of a third splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 25 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 26 is an enlarged fragmentary view of FIG. 25;

FIG. 26A is a front elevation of a first splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 25;

FIG. 26B is a front elevation of a second splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 25;

FIG. 26C is a front elevation of a third splice plate of the lintel of FIG. 25;

FIG. 27 is a front elevation of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 28 is a perspective of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 29 is a front elevation of the lintel of FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is a cross section of the lintel of FIG. 28;

FIG. 31 is a perspective of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 32 is a front elevation of the lintel of FIG. 31;

FIG. 33 is a perspective of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 34 is a front elevation of the lintel of FIG. 33;

FIG. 35 is a cross section of the lintel of FIG. 33;

FIG. 36 is a perspective of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 37 is a front elevation of the lintel of FIG. 36;

FIG. 38 is a perspective of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 39 is a front elevation of the lintel of FIG. 38;

FIG. 40 is a cross section of the lintel of FIG. 38;

FIG. 41 is a perspective of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 42 is a front elevation of the lintel of FIG. 41;

FIG. 43 is a perspective of a lintel of another embodiment;

FIG. 44 is a front elevation of the lintel of FIG. 43;

FIG. 45 is a cross section of the lintel of FIG. 43;

FIG. 46 is a perspective of a lintel of another embodiment; and

FIG. 47 is a front elevation of the lintel of FIG. 46.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIGS. 1-2, a masonry lintel system indicated generally at 10 includes support plates 11 mounted between a pair of lintels 12. Masonry support rods 13 extend through openings in the support plates 11 and between adjacent ones of the support plates. The support plates 11 have slots that receive portions of the lintels 12 for mounting the support plates on the lintels. As described more fully hereinafter, the lintel 12 is formed from a plurality of splice plates 14 (broadly, “plate members”). The lintel 12 spans the width of an archway opening 16 formed by masonry blocks in the form of bricks 18. The bricks have holes in them that receive the support rods 13. The support rods transfer the weight of the bricks to the support plates 11, which in turn transfer the weight to the lintels 12. In this way, the lintel system 10 supports the weight of the bricks 18 above the archway opening 16. The lintel system 10 is configured such that it is concealed within the bricks 18 when the archway is complete. Although the lintel system 10 includes two lintels 12 of the same construction in FIG. 1, a lintel system may include fewer or additional lintels. The splice plates 14 lintels 12 to be manufactured more efficiently while configuring the lintels to have adequate strength so that the lintel system 10 is capable of supporting the weight of the bricks 18 in an archway having a relatively long span.

The lintel 12 comprises arcuate splice plates 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D joined together to define an arch shaped spanning member 20 and base members 22 disposed at longitudinal ends of the lintel. The base members 22 extend laterally from splice plates 14A and 14D. As shown in FIG. 1, in use, the base members 22 are configured to rest on horizontal surfaces of the bricks 18 to position the lintel 12 above side walls of the archway opening 16. In one embodiment, the lintel 12, including the splice plates 14, is formed from steel and has a length L of about 12 feet (4 meters) and a thickness T of about 0.38 inches (0.97 cm). Other dimensions for the lintel are envisioned without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Broadly, the lintel 12 is a “plate type” lintel. The lintel could have over configurations such “box type” without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 1A-2A, the splice plates 14 interlock with each other and are welded together to form the lintel 12. A first splice plate 14A defines a leftmost portion of the lintel 12, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 1A, and includes a base member 22 at one end and an interlocking formation 24A (FIG. 2) at an opposite end. The interlocking formation 24A comprises a center enlarged head projection 26 and a pair of side projections 28 on either side of the center projection. The center enlarged head projection 26 comprises a narrowed connecting neck 30 and a rectangular shaped enlarged head 32 having rounded corners. The side projections 28 each comprise a narrowed connecting neck 34 and an enlarged head 36. The projections 26, 28 define enlarged end recesses 38 each including a narrow first portion and an enlarged second portion. A fourth splice plate 14D defines a rightmost portion of the lintel 12, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 1A, and includes a base member 22 at one end and an interlocking formation 24F at an opposite end. The fourth splice plate 14D is identical to the first splice plate 14A and thus the interlocking formation 24F is identical to the interlocking formation 24A on the first splice plate. It will be understood that the splice plates at the ends of a lintel need not be identical within the scope of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 2B, a second splice plate 14B defines a left center portion of the lintel 12, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 1A, and includes a first interlocking formation 24B at one end and a second interlocking formation 24C at an opposite end. The second interlocking formation 24C is identical to the interlocking formation 24A on the first splice plate 14A. The first interlocking formation 24B comprises a pair of enlarged head projections 44 each comprising a narrowed connecting neck 46 and a round enlarged head 48. The projections 44 define a center enlarged end recess 50 and a pair of side recesses 52. The center enlarged end recess 50 comprises a narrow first portion and an enlarged second portion. The enlarged head projections 44 are configured to mate with the enlarged end recess 38 in the first splice plate 14A, the center enlarged head projection 26 on the first splice plate is configured to mate with the center enlarged end recess 50 on the second splice plate, and the side projections 28 on the first splice plate 14A are configured to mate with the side recesses 52 in the second splice plate 14B. Thus, the splice plates 14A, 14B are configured to fit together like puzzle pieces.

A third splice plate 14C defines a right center portion of the lintel 12, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 1A, and includes a first interlocking formation 24D at one end and a second interlocking formation 24E at an opposite end. The first and second interlocking formations 24D, 24E are identical to the first interlocking formation 24B on the second splice plate 14B. Thus, the first interlocking formation 24D is configured to mate with the second interlocking formation 24C on the second splice plate 14B, and the second interlocking formation 24E is configured to mate with the interlocking formation 24F on the fourth splice plate 14D. In this embodiment, the interlocking formations 24A-24F and the welds connecting the splice plates 14A-14D comprise attachment mechanisms. After the splice plates 14A-14D are connected together, they can be permanently joined as by welding along the interface of adjoining splice plates. Therefore, each of the splice plates 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D is configured to fit together with at least one other splice plate like puzzle pieces. The configuration of the connection is such that even prior to welding, the splice plates 14A-14D cannot be disconnecting by pulling apart within the plane of the first and second splice plates.

In the illustrated embodiment, the lintel 12 is arch shaped. However other configurations of the lintel are envisioned. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, a lintel 112, similar to lintel 12, has a straight, flat, rectangular shape. Lintels of the type described herein may be used in lintel systems having only a single lintel, in pairs as shown in FIG. 1 or in any suitable combination for a particular job.

Referring to FIGS. 4-5C, a lintel 212 comprises a plurality of arcuate splice plates 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D defining an arch shaped plate member 220 and base members 222 disposed at longitudinal ends of the lintel. The base members 222 extend laterally from splice plates 214A and 214D.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5A, the splice plates 214 interlock with each other and are welded together to form the lintel 212. A first splice plate 214A defines a leftmost portion of the lintel 212, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 4, and includes a base member 222 at one end and an interlocking formation 224A at an opposite end. The interlocking formation 224A comprises a pair of side projections 228 each comprising a narrowed connecting neck 234 and an enlarged head 236. The projections 228 define a central recess 238 including a narrow first portion and an enlarged second portion. A fourth splice plate 214D defines a rightmost portion of the lintel 212, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 4, and includes a base member 222 at one end and an interlocking formation 224F at an opposite end. The fourth splice plate 214D is identical to the first splice plate 214A and thus the interlocking formation 224F is identical to the interlocking formation 224A on the first splice plate.

Referring to FIG. 5B, a second splice plate 214B defines a left center portion of the lintel 212, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 4, and includes a first interlocking formation 224B at one end and a second interlocking formation 224C at an opposite end. The second interlocking formation 224C is identical to the interlocking formation 224A on the first splice plate 214A. The first interlocking formation 224B comprises a single, central projection 244 comprising a narrowed connecting neck 246 and a round enlarged head 248. The projection 244 defines a pair of side recesses 252. The enlarged head projection 244 is configured to mate with the enlarged end recess 238 in the first splice plate 214A, and the side projections 228 on the first splice plate 214A are configured to mate with the side recesses 252 in the second splice plate 214B. Thus, the splice plates 214A, 214B are configured to fit together like puzzle pieces.

Referring to FIG. 5C, a third splice plate 214C defines a right center portion of the lintel 212, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 4, and includes a first interlocking formation 224D at one end and a second interlocking formation 224E at an opposite end. The first and second interlocking formations 224D, 224E are identical to the first interlocking formation 224B on the second splice plate 214B. Thus, the first interlocking formation 224D is configured to mate with the second interlocking formation 224C on the second splice plate 214B, and the second interlocking formation 224E is configured to mate with the interlocking formation 224F on the fourth splice plate 214D. In this embodiment, the interlocking formations 224A-224F and the welds connecting the splice plates 214A-214D comprise attachment mechanisms. Therefore, each of the splice plates 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D is configured to fit together with at least one other splice plate like puzzle pieces. Thus, even prior to welding the splice plates 214A-214D cannot be separated from each other by pulling in the plane of the splice plates.

In the illustrated embodiment, the lintel 212 is arch shaped. However other configurations of the lintel are envisioned. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, a lintel 312, similar to lintel 212, but has a straight, flat rectangular shape.

Referring to FIGS. 7-8C, a lintel 412 comprises a plurality of arcuate splice plates 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D defining an arch shaped plate member 420 and base members 422 disposed at longitudinal ends of the lintel. The base members 422 extend laterally from splice plates 414A and 414D.

Referring to FIGS. 7-8A, the splice plates 414 interlock with each other and are welded together to form the lintel 412. The lintel includes a spanning member 420 and a base member 422. A first splice plate 414A defines a leftmost portion of the lintel 412, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 7, and includes one of the base members 422 at one end and an interlocking formation 424A at an opposite end. The interlocking formation 424A comprises an angled projection 426 at a bottom of the formation and a recess 438 at a top of the formation. The angled projection 426 includes an angled transition surface 431. In the illustrated embodiment, the angled transition surface 431 extends from a floor of the recess 438 at an angle of about 45 degrees. The angled transition surface 431 could extend at other angles without departing from the scope of the disclosure. A fourth splice plate 414D defines a rightmost portion of the lintel 412, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 7, and includes the other of the base members 422 at one end and an interlocking formation 424F at an opposite end. The fourth splice plate 414D is identical to the first splice plate 414A and thus the interlocking formation 424F is identical to the interlocking formation 424A on the first splice plate.

Referring to FIG. 8B, a second splice plate 414B defines a left center portion of the lintel 412, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 7, and includes a first interlocking formation 424B at one end and a second interlocking formation 424C at an opposite end. The second interlocking formation 424C is identical to the interlocking formation 424A on the first splice plate 414A. The first interlocking formation 424B comprises an angled projection 444 at a top of the formation and a recess 452 at a bottom of the recess. The angled projection 444 includes an angled transition surface 447. In the illustrated embodiment, the angled transition surface 447 extends from a floor of the recess 452 at an angle of about 45 degrees. The angled transition surface 447 could extend at other angles without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The angled projection 444 is configured to mate with the recess 438 in the first splice plate 414A, and the angled projection 426 on the first splice plate 414A is configured to mate with the recess 452 in the second splice plate 414B such that the angled transition surfaces 431, 447 engage engaged each other. Thus, the splice plates 414A, 414B are configured to fit together like puzzle pieces.

Referring to FIG. 8C, a third splice plate 414C defines a right center portion of the lintel 412, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 7, and includes a first interlocking formation 424D at one end and a second interlocking formation 424E at an opposite end. The first and second interlocking formations 424D, 424E are identical to the first interlocking formation 424B on the second splice plate 414B. Thus, the first interlocking formation 424D is configured to mate with the second interlocking formation 424C on the second splice plate 414B, and the second interlocking formation 424E is configured to mate with the interlocking formation 424F on the fourth splice plate 414D. In this embodiment, the interlocking formations 424A-424F and the welds connecting the splice plates 414A-414D comprise attachment mechanisms. Therefore, each of the splice plates 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D is configured to fit together with at least one other splice plate like puzzle pieces. It will be appreciated that in this embodiment, the splice plates 414 are not mechanically interlocked prior to being joined by welding or in another suitable manner.

In the illustrated embodiment, the lintel 412 is arch shaped. However other configurations of the lintel are envisioned. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, a lintel 512, similar to lintel 412, has a straight, flat, rectangular shape.

Referring to FIGS. 10-11C, a lintel 612 comprises a plurality of arcuate splice plates 614A, 614B, 614C, 614D defining an arch shaped spanning member 620 and base members 622 disposed at longitudinal ends of the lintel. The base members 622 extend laterally from splice plates 614A and 614D.

Referring to FIGS. 10-11A, the splice plates 614 interlock with each other and are welded together to form the lintel 612. A first splice plate 614A defines a leftmost portion of the lintel 612, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 10, and includes a base member 622 at one end and an interlocking formation 624A at an opposite end. The interlocking formation 624A comprises a pair of angled projections 626. A center recess 638 and side recesses 639 are defined by the angled projections 626. Each angled projection 626 includes a first angled side surface 631 and a second angled side surface 633. In the illustrated embodiment, the angled side surfaces 631, 633 extend from a floor of respective ones of the recesses 638, 639 at an angle of about 45 degrees. The angled side surfaces 631, 633 could extend at other angles without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The angled projections 626 have a truncated triangular shape. A fourth splice plate 614D defines a rightmost portion of the lintel 612, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 10, and includes a base member 622 at one end and an interlocking formation 624F at an opposite end. The fourth splice plate 614D is identical to the first splice plate 614A and thus the interlocking formation 624F is identical to the interlocking formation 624A on the first splice plate.

Referring to FIG. 11B, a second splice plate 614B defines a left center portion of the lintel 612, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 10, and includes a first interlocking formation 624B at one end and a second interlocking formation 624C at an opposite end. The second interlocking formation 624C is identical to the interlocking formation 624A on the first splice plate 614A. The first interlocking formation 624B comprises an angled projection 644 at a center of the formation and a pair of lateral angled projections 645 at a top and bottom of the formation. Recesses 652 are defined by the projections 644, 645. The center angled projection 644 includes a first angled side surface 647 and a second angled surface 649. In the illustrated embodiment, the angled side surfaces 647, 649 extend from a floor of the recess 652 at an angle of about 45 degrees. The angled side surfaces 647, 649 could extend at other angles without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The angled projection 644 has a truncated triangular shape. The lateral angled projections 644, 645 each include a single angled side surface 651. In the illustrated embodiment, the angled side surfaces 651 extend from floors of the recesses 652 at an angle of about 45 degrees. The angled side surfaces 651 could extend at other angles without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The center angled projection 644 is configured to mate with the recess 638 in the first splice plate 614A, and the angled projections 626 on the first splice plate 614A are configured to mate with the recesses 652 in the second splice plate 614B such that the angled side surfaces 631, 633, 647, 649, 651 engage each other. Thus, the splice plates 614A, 614B are configured to fit together like puzzle pieces.

Referring to FIG. 11C, a third splice plate 614C defines a right center portion of the lintel 612, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 10, and includes a first interlocking formation 624D at one end and a second interlocking formation 624E at an opposite end. The first and second interlocking formations 624D, 624E are identical to the first interlocking formation 624B on the second splice plate 614B. Thus, the first interlocking formation 624D is configured to mate with the second interlocking formation 624C on the second splice plate 614B, and the second interlocking formation 624E is configured to mate with the interlocking formation 624F on the fourth splice plate 614D. In this embodiment, the interlocking formations 624A-624F and the welds connecting the splice plates 614A-614D comprise attachment mechanisms. Each of the splice plates 614A, 614B, 614C, 614D is configured to fit together with at least one other splice plate like puzzle pieces. The fitted splice plates 614A-614D resist relative movement when forces are applied transverse to the longitudinal axes of the splice plates in the plane of the splice plates, even prior to welding.

In the illustrated embodiment, the lintel 612 is arch shaped. However other configurations of the lintel are envisioned. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, a lintel 712, similar to lintel 612, has a straight, flat, rectangular shape.

Referring to FIGS. 13-14C, a lintel 812 comprises a plurality of arcuate splice plates 814A, 814B, 814C, 814D defining an arch shaped spanning member 820 and base members 822 disposed at longitudinal ends of the lintel. The base members 822 extend laterally from splice plates 814A and 814D.

Referring to FIGS. 13-14A, the splice plates 814 interlock with each other and are welded together to form the lintel 812. A first splice plate 814A defines a leftmost portion of the lintel 812, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 13, and includes a base member 822 at one end and an interlocking formation 824A at an opposite end. The interlocking formation 824A comprises a single angled projection 826 and a pair of side recesses 839 defined by the angled projection 826. The angled projection 826 includes a first angled side surface 831 and a second angled side surface 833. In the illustrated embodiment, the angled side surfaces 831, 833 extend from a floor of one of the recess 839 at an angle of about 45 degrees. The angled side surfaces 831, 833 could extend at other angles without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The angled projection 826 has a truncated triangular shape. A fourth splice plate 814D defines a rightmost portion of the lintel 812, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 13, and includes a base member 822 at one end and an interlocking formation 824F at an opposite end. The fourth splice plate 814D is identical to the first splice plate 814A and thus the interlocking formation 824F is identical to the interlocking formation 824A on the first splice plate.

Referring to FIG. 14B, a second splice plate 814B defines a left center portion of the lintel 812, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 13, and includes a first interlocking formation 824B at one end and a second interlocking formation 824C at an opposite end. The first and second interlocking formation 824B, 824C each comprise a pair of lateral angled projections 845 at a top and bottom of the formation. A recess 852 is defined by the projections 845. The lateral angled projections 845 each include a single angled side surface 851. In the illustrated embodiment, the angled side surfaces 851 extend from a floor of the recesses 852 at an angle of about 45 degrees. The angled side surfaces 851 could extend at other angles without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The lateral angled projections 845 are configured to mate with the lateral recesses 839 in the first splice plate 814A, and the angled projection 826 on the first splice plate 814A is configured to mate with the recess 852 in the second splice plate 814B such that the angled side surfaces 831, 833, 851 engage each other. Thus, the splice plates 814A, 814B are configured to fit together like puzzle pieces.

Referring to FIG. 14C, a third splice plate 814C defines a right center portion of the lintel 812, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 13, and includes a first interlocking formation 824D at one end and a second interlocking formation 824E at an opposite end. The first interlocking formation 824D is identical to the interlocking formation 824A on the first splice plate 814A, and the second interlocking formation 824E is identical to the interlocking formations 824B, 824C on the second splice plate 814B. Thus, the first interlocking formation 824D is configured to mate with the second interlocking formation 824C on the second splice plate 814B, and the second interlocking formation 824E is configured to mate with the interlocking formation 824F on the fourth splice plate 814D. In this embodiment, the interlocking formations 824A-824F and the welds connecting the splice plates 814A-814D comprise attachment mechanisms. Each of the splice plates 814A, 814B, 814C, 814D is configured to fit together with at least one other splice plate like puzzle pieces. The fitted splice plates resist movement against forces applied transverse to the longitudinal axes of the splice plates in the plane of the splice plates, even prior to welding.

In the illustrated embodiment, the lintel 812 is arch shaped. However other configurations of the lintel are envisioned. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, a lintel 912, similar to lintel 812, has a straight, flat, rectangular shape.

Referring to FIGS. 16-17C, a lintel 1012 comprises a plurality of arcuate splice plates 1014A, 1014B, 1014C, 1014D defining an arch shaped spanning member 1020 and base members 1022 disposed at longitudinal ends of the lintel. The base members 1022 extend laterally from splice plates 1014A and 1014D.

Referring to FIGS. 16-17A, the splice plates 1014 interlock with each other and are welded together to form the lintel 1012. A first splice plate 1014A defines a leftmost portion of the lintel 1012, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 16, and includes a base member 1022 at one end and an interlocking formation 1024A at an opposite end. The interlocking formation 1024A comprises a center flared end projection 1026 and a pair of side projections 1028 on either side of the center projection. The center flared end projection 1026 flares outward form a neck 1030 to a head 1032. The side projections 1028 each flare inward toward the center projection 1026 from a neck 1034 to a head 1036. The projections 1026, 1028 define flared end recesses 1038. A fourth splice plate 1014D defines a rightmost portion of the lintel 1012, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 16, and includes a base member 1022 at one end and an interlocking formation 1024F at an opposite end. The fourth splice plate 1014D is identical to the first splice plate 1014A and thus the interlocking formation 1024F is identical to the interlocking formation 1024A on the first splice plate.

Referring to FIG. 17B, a second splice plate 1014B defines a left center portion of the lintel 1012, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 16, and includes a first interlocking formation 1024B at one end and a second interlocking formation 1024C at an opposite end. The second interlocking formation 1024C is identical to the interlocking formation 1024A on the first splice plate 1014A. The first interlocking formation 1024B comprises a pair of flared end projections 1044 each flaring outward from a neck 1046 to a head 1048. The projections 1044 define a center flared end recess 1050 and a pair of side recesses 1052. The center flared end recess 1050 flares outward from a first end to a second end. The flared end projections 1044 are configured to mate with the flared end recesses 1038 in the first splice plate 1014A, the center flared end projection 1026 on the first splice plate is configured to mate with the center flared end recess 1050 in the second splice plate 1014B, and the side projections 1028 on the first splice plate are configured to mate with the side recesses 1052 in the second splice plate. Thus, the splice plates 1014A, 1014B are configured to fit together like puzzle pieces.

Referring to FIG. 17C, a third splice plate 1014C defines a right center portion of the lintel 1012, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 16, and includes a first interlocking formation 1024D at one end and a second interlocking formation 1024E at an opposite end. The first and second interlocking formations 1024D, 1024E are identical to the first interlocking formation 1024B on the second splice plate 1014B. Thus, the first interlocking formation 1024D is configured to mate with the second interlocking formation 1024C on the second splice plate 1014B, and the second interlocking formation 1024E is configured to mate with the interlocking formation 1024F on the fourth splice plate 1014D. In this embodiment, the interlocking formations 1024A-1024F and the welds connecting the splice plates 1014A-1014D comprise attachment mechanisms. Therefore, each of the splice plates 1014A, 1014B, 1014C, 1014D is configured to fit together with at least one other splice plate like puzzle pieces. It will be appreciated that prior to welding, the splice plates 1014 are mechanically connected so that they cannot be separated by pulling apart in the plane of the splice plates.

In the illustrated embodiment, the lintel 1012 is arch shaped. However other configurations of the lintel are envisioned. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, a lintel 1112, similar to lintel 1012, has a straight, flat, rectangular shape.

Referring to FIGS. 19-20C, a lintel 1212 comprises a plurality of arcuate splice plates 1214A, 1214B, 1214C, 1214D defining an arch shaped spanning member 1220 and base members 1222 disposed at longitudinal ends of the lintel. The base members 1222 extend laterally from splice plates 1214A and 1214D.

Referring to FIGS. 19-20A, the splice plates 1214 interlock with each other and are welded together to form the lintel 1212. A first splice plate 1214A defines a leftmost portion of the lintel 1212, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 19, and includes a base member 1222 at one end and an interlocking formation 1224A at an opposite end. The interlocking formation 1224A comprises a pair of side projections 1228 each flaring inward toward a center of the formation from a neck 1234 to a head 1236. The projections 1228 define a flared end recess 1238 flaring outward from a first portion to a second portion. A fourth splice plate 1214D defines a rightmost portion of the lintel 1212, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 19, and includes a base member 1222 at one end and an interlocking formation 1224F at an opposite end. The fourth splice plate 1214D is identical to the first splice plate 1214A and thus the interlocking formation 1224F is identical to the interlocking formation 1224A on the first splice plate.

Referring to FIG. 20B, a second splice plate 1214B defines a left center portion of the lintel 1212, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 19, and includes a first interlocking formation 1224B at one end and a second interlocking formation 1224C at an opposite end. The second interlocking formation 1224C is identical to the interlocking formation 1224A on the first splice plate 1214A. The first interlocking formation 1224B comprises a single flared end projection 1244 that flares outward from a neck 1246 to a head 1248. The projection 1244 defines a pair of side recesses 1252. The flared end projection 1244 is configured to mate with the flared end recess 1238 in the first splice plate 1214A, and the side projections 1228 on the first splice plate 1214A are configured to mate with the side recesses 1252 in the second splice plate 1214B. Thus, the splice plates 1214A, 1214B are configured to fit together like puzzle pieces.

Referring to FIG. 20C, a third splice plate 1214C defines a right center portion of the lintel 1212, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 19, and includes a first interlocking formation 1224D at one end and a second interlocking formation 1224E at an opposite end. The first and second interlocking formations 1224D, 1224E are identical to the first interlocking formation 1224B on the second splice plate 1214B. Thus, the first interlocking formation 1224D is configured to mate with the second interlocking formation 1224C on the second splice plate 1214B, and the second interlocking formation 1224E is configured to mate with the interlocking formation 1224F on the fourth splice plate 1214D. In this embodiment, the interlocking formations 1224A-1224F and the welds connecting the splice plates 1214A-1214D comprise attachment mechanisms. Each of the splice plates 1214A, 1214B, 1214C, 1214D is configured to fit together with at least one other splice plate like puzzle pieces. It will be appreciated that prior to welding, the splice plates 1214 are mechanically connected so that they cannot be separated by pulling apart in the plane of the splice plates.

In the illustrated embodiment, the lintel 1212 is arch shaped. However other configurations of the lintel are envisioned. For example, as shown in FIG. 21, a lintel 1312, similar to lintel 1212, has a straight, flat, rectangular shape.

Referring to FIGS. 22-23C, The lintel 1412 comprising a plurality of arcuate splice plates 1414A, 1414B, 1414C, 1414D defining an arch shaped spanning member 1420 and base members 1422 disposed at longitudinal ends of the lintel. The base members 1422 extend laterally from splice plates 1414A and 1414D.

Referring to FIGS. 22-23A, the splice plates 1414 interlock with each other and are welded together to form the lintel 1412. A first splice plate 1414A defines a leftmost portion of the lintel 1412, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 22, and includes a base member 1422 at one end and an interlocking formation 1424A at an opposite end. The interlocking formation 1424A comprises a center enlarged head projection 1426 and a pair of side projections 1428 on either side of the center projection. The center enlarged head projection 1426 comprises a narrowed connecting neck 1430 and a rectangular shaped enlarged head 1432. The side projections 1428 each comprise a narrowed connecting neck 1434 and an enlarged head 1436. The projections 1426, 1428 define enlarged end recesses 1438 each including a narrow first portion and an enlarged second portion. A fourth splice plate 1414D defines a rightmost portion of the lintel 1412, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 22, and includes a base member 1422 at one end and an interlocking formation 1424F at an opposite end. The fourth splice plate 1414D is identical to the first splice plate 1414A and thus the interlocking formation 1424F is identical to the interlocking formation 1424A on the first splice plate.

Referring to FIG. 23B, a second splice plate 1414B defines a left center portion of the lintel 1412, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 22, and includes a first interlocking formation 1424B at one end and a second interlocking formation 1424C at an opposite end. The second interlocking formation 1424C is identical to the interlocking formation 1424A on the first splice plate 1414A. The first interlocking formation 1424B comprises a pair of enlarged head projections 1444 each comprising a narrowed connecting neck 1446 and a rectangular enlarged head 1448. The projections 1444 define a center enlarged end recess 1450 and a pair of side recesses 1452. The center enlarged end recess 1450 comprises a narrow first portion and an enlarged second portion. The enlarged head projections 1444 are configured to mate with the enlarged end recesses 1438 in the first splice plate 1414A, the center enlarged head projection 1426 on the first splice plate is configured to mate with the center enlarged end recess 1450 on the second splice plate, and the side projections 1428 on the first splice plate 1414A are configured to mate with the side recesses 1452 in the second splice plate 1414B. Thus, the splice plates 1414A, 1414B are configured to fit together like puzzle pieces.

Referring to FIG. 23C, a third splice plate 1414C defines a right center portion of the lintel 1412, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 22, and includes a first interlocking formation 1424D at one end and a second interlocking formation 1424E at an opposite end. The first and second interlocking formations 1424D, 1424E are identical to the first interlocking formation 1424B on the second splice plate 1414B. Thus, the first interlocking formation 1424D is configured to mate with the second interlocking formation 1424C on the second splice plate 1414B, and the second interlocking formation 1424E is configured to mate with the interlocking formation 1424F on the fourth splice plate 1414D. In this embodiment, the interlocking formations 1424A-1424F and the welds connecting the splice plates 1414A-1414D comprise attachment mechanisms. Each of the splice plates 1414A, 1414B, 1414C, 1414D is configured to fit together with at least one other splice plate like puzzle pieces. It will be appreciated that prior to welding, the splice plates 1414 are mechanically connected so that they cannot be separated by pulling apart in the plane of the splice plates.

In the illustrated embodiment, the lintel 1412 is arch shaped. However other configurations of the lintel are envisioned. For example, as shown in FIG. 24, a lintel 1512, similar to lintel 1412, has a straight, flat, rectangular shape.

Referring to FIGS. 25-26C, a lintel 1612 comprising a plurality of arcuate splice plates 1614A, 1614B, 1614C, 1614D defining an arch shaped spanning member 1620 and base members 1622 disposed at longitudinal ends of the lintel. The base members 1622 extend laterally from splice plates 1614A and 1614D.

Referring to FIGS. 25-26A, the splice plates 1614 interlock with each other and are welded together to form the lintel 1612. A first splice plate 1614A defines a leftmost portion of the lintel 1612, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 25, and includes a base member 1622 at one end and an interlocking formation 1624A at an opposite end. The interlocking formation 1624A comprises a pair of side projections 1628 each comprising a narrowed connecting neck 1634 and an enlarged head 1636. The projections 1628 define an enlarged end recess 1638 including a narrow first portion and an enlarged second portion. A fourth splice plate 1614D defines a rightmost portion of the lintel 1612, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 25, and includes a base member 1622 at one end and an interlocking formation 1624F at an opposite end. The fourth splice plate 1614D is identical to the first splice plate 1614A and thus the interlocking formation 1624F is identical to the interlocking formation 1624A on the first splice plate.

Referring to FIG. 26B, a second splice plate 1614B defines a left center portion of the lintel 1612, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 25, and includes a first interlocking formation 1624B at one end and a second interlocking formation 1624C at an opposite end. The second interlocking formation 1624C is identical to the interlocking formation 1624A on the first splice plate 1614A. The first interlocking formation 1624B comprises a single enlarged head projection 1644 comprising a narrowed connecting neck 1646 and an enlarged rectangular head 1648. The projection 1644 defines a pair of side recesses 1652. The enlarged head projection 1644 is configured to mate with the enlarged end recess 1638 in the first splice plate 1614A, and the side projections 1628 on the first splice plate 1614A are configured to mate with the side recesses 1652 in the second splice plate 1614B. Thus, the splice plates 1614A, 1614B are configured to fit together like puzzle pieces.

Referring to FIG. 26C, a third splice plate 1614C defines a right center portion of the lintel 1612, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 25, and includes a first interlocking formation 1624D at one end and a second interlocking formation 1624E at an opposite end. The first and second interlocking formations 1624D, 1624E are identical to the first interlocking formation 1624B on the second splice plate 1614B. Thus, the first interlocking formation 1624D is configured to mate with the second interlocking formation 1624C on the second splice plate 1614B, and the second interlocking formation 1624E is configured to mate with the interlocking formation 1624F on the fourth splice plate 1614D. In this embodiment, the interlocking formations 1624A-1624F and the welds connecting the splice plates 1614A-1614D comprise attachment mechanisms. Each of the splice plates 1614A, 1614B, 1614C, 1614D is configured to fit together with at least one other splice plate like puzzle pieces. It will be appreciated that prior to welding, the splice plates 1614 are mechanically connected so that they cannot be separated by pulling apart in the plane of the splice plates.

In the illustrated embodiment, the lintel 1612 is arch shaped. However other configurations of the lintel are envisioned. For example, as shown in FIG. 27, a lintel 1712, similar to lintel 1612, has a straight, flat, rectangular shape.

Referring to FIGS. 28-30, a lintel 1812 comprises a plurality of arcuate splice plates 1814A, 1814B, 1814C, 1814D defining an arch shaped spanning member 1820 and base members 1822 disposed at longitudinal ends of the lintel. The base members 1822 extend laterally from splice plates 1814A and 1814D.

The splice plates 1814 are welded together by attachment plates 1825A, 1825B (broadly, “attachment mechanisms”) to form the lintel 1812. A first splice plate 1814A defines a leftmost portion of the lintel 1812, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 29, and includes a base member 1822 at one end and a straight edge at an opposite end. A second splice plate 1814B defines a left center portion of the lintel 1812, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 29, and presents a straight edge at each end of the splice plate. The straight edge of the first splice plate 1814A is attached to a left straight edge of the second splice plate 1814B by attachment plates 1825A, 1825B. Attachment plate 1825A is disposed generally at a top of the connection between splice plates 1814A and 1814B, and attachment plate 1825B is disposed generally at a bottom of the connection between splice plates 1814A and 1814B.

A fourth splice plate 1814D defines a rightmost portion of the lintel 1812, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 29, and includes a base member 1822 at one end and straight edge at an opposite end. A third splice plate 1814C defines a right center portion of the lintel 1812, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 29, and has a straight edge at each end of the splice plate. The straight edge of the fourth splice plate 1814D is attached to a right straight edge of the third splice plate 1814C by attachment plates 1825A, 1825B. Attachment plate 1825A is disposed generally at a top of the connection between splice plates 1814D and 1814C, and attachment plate 1825B is disposed generally at a bottom of the connection between splice plates 1814D and 1814C. A left straight edge of the third splice plate 1814C is attached to a right straight edge of the second splice plate 1814B by attachment plates 1825A, 1825B. Attachment plate 1825A is disposed generally at a top of the connection between splice plates 1814B and 1814C, and attachment plate 1825B is disposed generally at a bottom of the connection between splice plates 1814B and 1814C.

The attachment plates 1825A, 1825B comprise L-shaped members that are curved along their lengths. The attachment plates 1825A, 1825B are disposed generally at the top and bottom of the lintel 1812, respectively. Attachment plates 1825A each extend partially along a top curved portion of the lintel 1812 such that a first portion 1827A of the attachment plate is positioned opposite a side face of the lintel, and a second portion 1829A is positioned opposite a top edge of the lintel. The first and second portions 1827A and 1829A extend transverse to each other, forming a right angle in the illustrated embodiment. The first portion 1827A is welded to the side face of the lintel 1812 at a bottom edge of the first portion, and the second portion 1829A is welded to the top edge of the lintel at a bottom surface of the second portion. Attachment plates 1825B extend partially along a bottom curved portion of the lintel 1812 such that a first portion 1827B is positioned opposite the side face of the lintel, and a second portion 1829B is positioned opposite a bottom edge of the lintel. The first and second portions 1827B, 1829B extend transverse to each other, forming a right angle in the illustrated embodiment. The first portion 1827B is welded to the side face of the lintel 1812 at a top edge of the first portion, and the second portion 1829B is welded to the bottom edge of the lintel at an upper surface of the second portion.

In one or more embodiments, the attachment plates 1825A, 1825B provide additional strength and reinforcement to the lintel 1812 for supporting the weight of bricks above an archway or opening in a structure.

In the illustrated embodiment, lintel 1812 is arch shaped. However other configurations of the lintel are envisioned. For example, as shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, a lintel 1912, similar to lintel 1812, has a straight, flat, rectangular shape. In this embodiment, attachment plates 1925A, 1925B (broadly, “attachment mechanisms”) are L-shaped.

In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment plates 1825A, 1825B are welded to the lintel 1812. However other ways of attaching the attachment plates to the lintel are envisioned. For example, as shown in FIGS. 33-35, a lintel 2012, substantially identical to lintel 1812, comprises attachment plates 2025A, 2025B similar in construction to the attachment plates 1825A, 1825B, but bolted to lintel. The attachment plates 2025A, 2025B and the bolts may be broadly considered “attachment mechanisms.”

In the illustrated embodiment, lintel 2012 is arch shaped. However other configurations of the lintel are envisioned. For example, as shown in FIGS. 36 and 37, a lintel 2112, similar to lintel 2012, has a straight, flat, rectangular shape.

Referring to FIGS. 38-40, a lintel 2212 comprising a plurality of arcuate splice plates 2214A, 2214B, 2214C, 2214D defining an arch shaped spanning member 2220 and base members 2222 disposed at longitudinal ends of the lintel. The base members 2222 extend laterally from splice plates 2214A and 2214D.

The splice plates 2214 are welded together by attachment plates 2225A, 2225B (broadly, “attachment mechanisms”) to form the lintel 2212. A first splice plate 2214A defines a leftmost portion of the lintel 2212, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 39, and includes a base member 2222 at one end and a straight edge at an opposite end. A second splice plate 2214B defines a left center portion of the lintel 2212, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 39, and has a straight edge at each end of the splice plate. The straight edge of the first splice plate 2214A is attached to a left straight edge of the second splice plate 2214B by attachment plates 2225A, 2225B. Attachment plate 2225A is disposed generally along front faces of the connection between splice plates 2214A and 2214B, and attachment plate 2225B is disposed generally along back faces of the connection between splice plates 2214A and 2214B.

A fourth splice plate 2214D defines a rightmost portion of the lintel 2212, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 39, and includes a base member 2222 at one end and a straight edge at an opposite end. A third splice plate 2214C defines a right center portion of the lintel 2212, as viewed from the vantage of FIG. 39, and has a straight edge at each end of the splice plate. The straight edge of the fourth splice plate 2214D is attached to a right straight edge of the third splice plate 2214C by attachment plates 2225A, 2225B. Attachment plate 2225A is disposed generally along front faces of the connection between splice plates 2214D and 2214C, and attachment plate 2225B is disposed generally along back faces of the connection between splice plates 2214D and 2214C. A left straight edge of the third splice plate 2214C is attached to a right straight edge of the second splice plate 2214B by attachment plates 1825A, 1825B. Attachment plate 2225A is disposed generally along front faces of the connection between splice plates 2214B and 2214C, and attachment plate 2225B is disposed generally along back faces of the connection between splice plates 2214B and 2214C.

The attachment plates 2225A, 2225B are disposed at front and back surfaces of the lintel 2212, respectively. Attachment plates 2225A extend partially along a front side surface of the lintel 2212 such that the attachment plate is positioned opposite the front side surface of the lintel. The attachment plate 2225A is welded to the front side surface of the lintel 2212 at top and bottom edges of the attachment plate. Attachment plates 1825B extend partially along a back side surface of the lintel 2212 such that the attachment plate is positioned opposite the back side surface of the lintel. The attachment plate 2225B is welded to the back side surface of the lintel 2212 at top and bottom edges of the attachment plate. It will be understood that the side edges of the attachment plates 2225A, 2225B could also be welded to the lintel.

In the illustrated embodiment, lintel 2212 is arch shaped. However other configurations of the lintel are envisioned. For example, as shown in FIGS. 41 and 42, a lintel 2312, similar to lintel 2212, has a straight, flat, rectangular shape. In this embodiment, the attachment plates 2325A, 2325B (broadly, “attachment mechanisms”) have a straight, rectangular shape.

In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment plates 2225A, 2225B are welded to the lintel 2212. However other ways of attaching the attachment plates to the lintel are envisioned. For example, as shown in FIGS. 43-45, a lintel 2412, substantially identical to lintel 2012, comprises attachment plates 2425A, 2425B (broadly, “attachment mechanisms”) bolted to lintel 2412.

In the illustrated embodiment, lintel 2412 is arch shaped. However other configurations of the lintel are envisioned. For example, as shown in FIGS. 46 and 47, a lintel 2512, similar to lintel 2412, has a flat rectangular shape.

Having described the invention in detail, it will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention defined in the appended claims.

When introducing elements of the present invention or the preferred embodiments(s) thereof, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising”, “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.

In view of the above, it will be seen that the several objects of the invention are achieved and other advantageous results attained.

As various changes could be made in the above products without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A lintel system for supporting masonry blocks above an opening in a structure, the lintel system comprising a lintel having a length configured to span a width of the opening, support plates each having an opening within a perimeter of the support plate, and a slot therein for receiving the lintel therein for mounting the support plate on the lintel, a support rod receivable through the opening in the support plate and configured to be received through the masonry blocks for connecting the masonry blocks to the lintel, wherein the lintel comprises a plurality of separately formed, elongate plate members each having opposite longitudinal ends, the plate members being attached together end to end along the length of the lintel such that a longitudinal end of each plate member is attached to a longitudinal end of at least one other plate member.
 2. The lintel system of claim 1, wherein each plate member includes an attachment mechanism at at least one longitudinal end for attaching the plate member to an adjacent plate member.
 3. The lintel system of claim 2, wherein at least one plate member includes an attachment mechanism at both longitudinal ends.
 4. The lintel system of claim 2, wherein the attachment mechanism comprises an interlocking formation configured to interlock with an adjacent plate member and restrict adjacent plate members from being pulled apart.
 5. The lintel system of claim 4, wherein the attachment mechanism is formed as one piece of material with the plate member.
 6. The lintel system of claim 2, wherein the attachment mechanism comprises one of a projection and a recess configured to mate with the other of a projection and a recess of an attachment mechanism on an adjacent plate member.
 7. The lintel system of claim 2, wherein the attachment mechanism comprises at least one attachment plate mounted on abutting longitudinal ends of adjacent plate members.
 8. The lintel system of claim 7, wherein the attachment mechanism comprises at least two attachment plates mounted on the abutting longitudinal ends of the adjacent plate members.
 9. The lintel system of claim 7, wherein the at least one attachment plate is welded to the plate members.
 10. The lintel system of claim 7, wherein the at least one attachment plate is bolted to the plate members.
 11. The lintel system of claim 1, wherein the plate members are welded to each other.
 12. The lintel system of claim 1, wherein the plate members are bolted to each other.
 13. The lintel system of claim 1, wherein the plate members have an arcuate shape.
 14. The lintel system of claim 1, wherein the plate members have a rectangular shape.
 15. A lintel system for supporting masonry blocks above an opening in a structure, the lintel system comprising a lintel configured to span a width of the opening, support plates each having an opening within a perimeter of the support plate, and a slot therein for receiving the lintel therein for mounting the support plate on the lintel, a support rod receivable through the opening in the support plate and configured to be received through the masonry blocks for connecting the masonry blocks to the lintel, wherein the lintel comprises a plurality of plate members attached to each other, each plate member including one of a projection and a recess, a projection on a first plate member being configured to be received in a recess of a second plate member adjacent the first plate member for interlocking the first and second plate members together.
 16. The lintel system of claim 15, wherein the first and second plate members are welded together.
 17. The lintel system of claim 15, wherein the projection is disposed on a longitudinal end of the first plate member and the recess is disposed in a longitudinal end of the second plate member.
 18. The lintel system of claim 15, wherein the plate members have an arcuate shape.
 19. The lintel system of claim 15, wherein the plate members have a rectangular shape.
 20. The lintel system of claim 15, wherein the lintel further comprises supports disposed at longitudinal ends of the lintel. 